IT’S the aptly named craft ale bar on the site of an old bank which boasts DJ sets, its own record shop, delicious Mexican street food and a relaxed vibe.

Overdraft on Shirley Road became only Southampton’s second micropub when it opened in 2015 inside a 110-year-old building complete with lots of original features including its own bank vault, which makes the perfect beer cellar.

The focus ever since has been on high quality craft beer and music played by DJs on vinyl surrounded by collectables from the record shop.

ALSO READ: The tiny Hampshire micropub with space for just 25 drinkers

Overdraft's exclusive Golden Ale, which staff worked closely with Southampton’s Unity Brewing Co to design, is a real crowd pleaser and makes up the majority of beer sales. The 11 other draught beers on offer on tap change daily.

The bar hosts DJs every Friday and Saturday night, playing a range of genres on vinyl including soul, funk, disco and hip hop.

The menu boasts the likes of Baja Fish Tacos, Loaded Nachos, Lime Salt Fries, Brisket Burritos, Vegan Seitan Tacos and more.

Daily Echo:

The ‘beer garden’ is in keeping with the rest of the establishment and can only be described as intimate. But it’s a go to place for lots of regulars to socialise.

Director Mikha Rai told the Daily Echo: "We’re the social hub of the community and have a laid back atmosphere.

“When we opened, we were only the second micropub to open in the city. Now we are much more and I don’t think there is one word to describe our many offerings.

“We have a range of events that vary each month as we like to keep it fresh. We’re always inviting people in the community to come and use our space for workshops and community projects whenever we can for free.

Daily Echo:

"Owning a small, intimate, wet led pub during Covid was near impossible. We learnt a lot of new skills, and have evolved immensely, but you can’t beat cramming people in on a Friday night for the proper Overdraft vibes!

"We’ve changed our business model so many times I’ve lost count. We had to become a restaurant, which took a special part away from what we set out to be. Thankfully we found a new equilibrium and balance to our service style and atmosphere - we think of it as casual dining at it’s finest!"

Overdraft staff, including Oscar, Chelsea, Charlie, Karolina and Pat, love bringing the community together at the bar, but hate dry January with a passion!

  • Overdraft is our pub of the week. We love to support everything from back street boozers to glamorous gastropubs. If you'd like us to feature your watering hole, click on the link below, visit dailyecho.co.uk/pub-of-the-week or email lorelei.reddin@dailyecho.co.uk

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